Gallbladder Removal Surgery Mitcham (Cholecystectomy)
Gallbladder Pain
If you’ve ever experienced sudden pain in the upper right of your abdomen or a squeezing sensation across your ribs, it might be what’s commonly called a ‘gallbladder attack’. Many people describe it as intense enough to send them to the hospital for relief.
The gallbladder, a small pouch under the liver, stores bile, a substance that helps digest fats. When bile becomes rich in cholesterol or pigments and isn’t released properly, small crystals can form, gradually building up into gallstones.
Gallbladder Disease
This condition, called gallstone disease, is one of the most common reasons for surgery in Australia. General surgeons like Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam work with patients experiencing gallstones and other gallbladder-related conditions, like acute or chronic cholecystitis (inflamed gallbladder), biliary colic, and gallstone pancreatitis.
Through prompt diagnosis and proper treatment, patients may experience ongoing relief and lower the chances of complications developing.
With timely diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment, patients may be able to find long-term relief and avoid potentially serious complications.
Symptoms of Gallstones
Not all gallstones cause noticeable symptoms. Smaller stones usually don’t block the bile duct or hinder bile movement from the gallbladder to the small intestine. Once they become larger, though, they may result in symptoms like:
- Sharp or persistent pain in the abdomen
- Abdominal pain that flares up after consuming fatty foods
- Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes)
- A high temperature or fever
Causes of Gallstones
A number of factors can contribute to the formation of gallstones, including:
- Too much cholesterol in the bile
- Sudden or fast weight loss
- Taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Hereditary blood disorders
- Eating certain fatty foods
Some people may not notice any symptoms, while others experience intense biliary pain, repeated episodes, or issues such as chronic pancreatitis or inflammation of the gallbladder.
When symptoms become severe or persistent, the usual treatment is gallbladder removal surgery, known as a cholecystectomy. This procedure helps stop recurring attacks and supports a return to everyday activities.
Gallbladder Surgery With Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam has considerable experience performing gallbladder surgeries across Mitcham, applying the latest laparoscopic approaches that aim to help shorten recovery periods and optimise outcomes.
Also known as keyhole surgery, laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive way to remove the gallbladder. During a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, several small cuts are made to insert instruments, enabling the gallbladder to be removed with generally less pain and faster recovery than open surgery.
His approach to gallbladder surgery includes:
- Thorough assessment: Identifying whether gallstones are responsible for your symptoms and ruling out other possible issues like acid reflux or peptic ulcers.
- Open communication: Explaining the procedure, outlining possible risks and advantages, and reviewing the consent form in detail beforehand.
- Advanced care: Delivering laparoscopic and, when needed, open gallbladder procedures to provide the most appropriate solution for each individual.
- Recovery support: Providing assistance with pain control, wound management, and dietary adjustments (including a low-fat plan) to promote a smooth return to normal activities.
With a focus on evidence-based care, safety, and empathy, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam ensures each patient is well-informed and cared for every step of the way.
Looking to learn more about laparoscopic gallbladder surgery from a supportive and experienced local surgeon?
Your Gallbladder Surgery Mitcham Questions Answered
What are gallstones made of?
Gallstones are solid particles that form in the gallbladder, made up of cholesterol, pigments, or a mix of both. Cholesterol stones are the most common, forming when bile contains excess cholesterol; pigment stones result from too much bilirubin, often due to genetic blood conditions; and mixed stones combine cholesterol and salts. They can be as small as sand grains or several centimetres in size.
How many people have gallbladder diseases?
Because many people with gallstones don’t experience any symptoms, it’s difficult to know the exact figures. Still, estimates suggest around 15% of Australians over the age of 50 are affected.
What are the risks of gallbladder surgery?
While surgery is generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential risks. Uncommon complications can include infection, bleeding, blood clots, bile duct injury, or minor bruising and discharge at the incision sites. Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will go through all potential risks with you beforehand.
What happens after my gallbladder is removed?
Most people are able to go home within 24 hours of gallbladder removal. A few may notice mild diarrhoea or loose bowel movements due to bile flowing directly into the intestine, but this generally improves over time. A low-fat diet is recommended at first, with a gradual return to normal eating habits.
What is a bile duct, and what is its role in the gallbladder?
The bile duct is the channel that carries bile from the gallbladder and liver to the small intestine, where it helps digest fats. The common bile duct is the main pathway that joins smaller ducts together before bile enters the intestine. During gallbladder surgery, surgeons carefully check the bile ducts to ensure no gallstones are blocking them, as this can cause pain, infection, or jaundice.
Do I need a gallbladder if it's causing issues?
The gallbladder’s main role is to store bile, but it isn’t necessary for normal digestion. After removal, bile flows continuously into the small intestine. Most people adapt well without lasting dietary problems, though a lower-fat diet can ease recovery. Some may notice temporary loose stools, especially after caffeine or fatty foods, but these symptoms generally fade over time.
That said, you shouldn’t let possible short-term effects discourage you. For those with gallstones or other gallbladder problems, laparoscopic surgery is often the best approach, as delaying treatment can increase the risk of complications.
What areas do you service?
Knox Private Hospital and Forest Hill Medical and Dental Centre are easily accessible to patients in:
Why Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam?
Experience in Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Surgery
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam is skilled in laparoscopic gallbladder surgery, aiming to provide patients with less postoperative pain and faster recovery.
Comprehensive, Local Care
From diagnosis to surgery and recovery, all close to home, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam offers complete care and clear communication at every step.
Patient-Centred Approach
With more than 15 years of experience in surgery, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam provides care for patients experiencing bile duct and gallbladder problems.
Aiming to Help You Sleep Through the Night Without Pain
If you’re suffering from gallstones, biliary colic, or recurrent abdominal pain, help may be closer than you think. Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery may be the most appropriate way to prevent further attacks and complications, potentially helping you get back to daily life without pain.
Book an appointment with Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam to assess your symptoms and discuss whether laparoscopic gallbladder surgery is the most appropriate next step. If you require urgent attention for gallbladder inflammation or want guidance on long-term management, you’ll receive an individualised care plan.